Renaissance devotional pendant, circa 1580 – Christ in enamel on banded agate
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Probably made between the late 16th and early 17th centuries, this devotional pendant evokes both wonder and peaceful grace. The enameled face of Christ, eyes closed, set on a banded agate, is framed by a fine radiant halo and a twisted gilded border—details rendered so delicately that they seem to soothe the piece. His expression is filled with tender solemnity, heightened by the golden tear beneath one eye. Likely of South Netherlandish or German origin, this piece transcends its era. A true jewel worthy of a museum, yet still an object to be kept, worn, and cherished from generation to generation.
Object group of antique jewelry
pendant
Condition
very good condition
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Possible origin and craftsmanship
Although their precise provenance is unknown, stylistic features such as the twisted gilded frame, enamel details, and devotional subject suggest a southern Netherlands or German origin. These pendants were often privately commissioned and valued for their spiritual and artistic significance.
Style
Renaissance – The Renaissance (from the Italian Rinascimento, meaning "rebirth") was a cultural awakening that began in Florence in the 14th century and gradually spread throughout Europe. It marked a revival of classical ideals, inspiring artists, scholars, and craftsmen to draw on the harmony and refinement of ancient Greece and Rome. Often seen as a bridge between the medieval world and the modern era, the Renaissance gave rise to remarkable innovations in art, architecture, and knowledge. Its spirit of curiosity and elegance lives on in objects like this jewel, where craftsmanship meets humanist sensibility. See also: Renaissance Jewelry and Classicism, the measured application of ancient principles to design, celebrated for its restraint, balance, and timeless beauty.
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Style specifics
This pendant embodies the intimate side of Renaissance art, where devotion, symbolism, and craftsmanship come together in miniature. Unlike grand court jewelry, this type of object was likely intended for private contemplation. The restrained palette, expressive enameled details, and refined goldsmithing reflect the Renaissance fascination with classical serenity and spiritual grace. The use of white enamel heightened with black is particularly telling: a stylistic choice often seen in devotional jewelry from the late 16th and early 17th centuries, evoking purity, solemnity, and emotional depth.
Period
circa 1580
Events and facts from this period, poetry from this period, fashion from this period.
Source of inspiration
Christianity
Theme
The pendant represents the head of Christ, eyes closed, a subtle golden tear beneath the left eye, and a radiant halo surrounding the image like a crown of peaceful light. The expression is one of calm and surrender, capturing not only a religious icon, but a profoundly human moment of suffering and grace. This intimate portrait could have served as a subject for prayer, reflection, or remembrance.
Material
18K
Warm yellow gold, probably 18 carats, shaped and finished with a fine twisted wire and smooth settings. The craftsmanship suggests a delicate balance between decorative finesse and devotional sobriety, characteristic of late Renaissance goldsmithing.
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Technique
Enameling is an ancient decorative art that consists of fusing powdered glass onto metal at high temperatures, creating a smooth and often luminous surface. From ancient Egypt to Renaissance Europe, cultures have adopted this technique for its durability and brilliance. On this pendant, the enamel is not only decorative: it brings the features of Christ to life, enhancing details and emotion. The refined use of white with touches of black demonstrates a pronounced taste for expressive sobriety, typical of devotional jewelry made in the late 16th and early 17th centuries.
Function and possible use
Given its size, devotional subject, and rear fixture, this pendant was probably worn close to the body, either on a chain or as part of a rosary. These pieces were often given to celebrate significant events or worn during mourning, not for outward display, but for inner consolation. The radiant halo and the single tear perhaps symbolize divine light and human suffering in silent unity.
Symbolism of the tear
The small golden tear brings an unusual and powerful touch. It may allude to the Lacrima Christi motif—"the tear of Christ"—a symbol of sadness, compassion, and redemptive sacrifice. It gives the piece an emotional depth that surpasses what is usually found in this type of jewelry.
Comparative examples
Similar miniatures of enamel Christ heads appear in the art and design of German and Flemish religious objects from the late 16th century, often linked to Jesuit influence or the personal devotion of Counter-Reformation circles. Although each example is different, the association of agate, enamel, and twisted gold filigree is well documented in museum collections, such as those of the Munich Residenz and certain pieces in the British Museum.
Precious stones
a single polished banded agate plaque
Characteristics
No visible hallmark remains, which is not unusual for a jewel of this age and probably of private origin. Its construction and style, however, suggest talented Renaissance goldsmithing, originating from the Southern Netherlands or Germany.
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Dimensions
4.13 cm (1.63 inches) x 3.31 cm (1.30 inches)
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Weight
10.00 grams (6.43 dwt)
Adin
Référence 58 Facettes : 9807417999689
SKU : 25114-0064
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